System and method for using a webpad to control a data stream

ABSTRACT

A system and method for using a webpad to select a target device which is to receive from a source device a stream of a digital representation of a media. The webpad is used to send a transmission to the source device to cause the source device to route the stream of the digital representation of the media to the target device where the target device decodes and converts the digital representation of the media into analog signals to thereby allow for a reproduction of the media.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims the benefit of U.S.application Ser. No. 09/955,723, filed Sep. 18, 2001, which applicationis a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of each of thefollowing applications: U.S. application Ser. No. 09/946,946, filed Sep.4, 2001; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/230,084, filed Sep. 5,2000; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/233,839, filed Sep. 19,2000, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of personal digitalassistants, and more particularly, to a webpad.

BACKGROUND

The rapid buildup of telecommunications infrastructure combined withsubstantial investment in Internet-based businesses and technology hasbrought Internet connectivity to a large segment of the population.Recent market statistics show that a majority of households in the U.S.own at least one personal computer (PC), and a significant number ofthese PCs are connected to the Internet. Although the majority ofhousehold PCs are connected to the Internet by dialup modem connections,broadband connectivity is being rapidly adopted, and is decreasing inprice as a variety of technologies are introduced and compete in themarketplace. A large majority of households in the U.S. and Europe areviable for at least one or more type of broadband connection, such ascable, DSL, optical networks, fixed wireless, or two-way satellitetransmission.

The rapid proliferation of low-cost processing power and Internetconnectivity has driven the availability and popularity of digitalcontent. Digitization combined with compression technology producescontent that is small and portable. Consumer enthusiasm for digitalaudio files such as MP3-formatted content is a prime example of thetrend toward content digitization, enabling consumers to efficientlyshare audio files that they have digitized from CDs. The creation andtransfer of digital audio is now understood and desired by millions ofconsumers. The MP3 digital audio format is an audio encoding technologythat allows consumers to further compress digital audio files such asthose found on Compact Disks, to much smaller sizes with very littledecrease in sound quality. PC-based MP3 software players have beencreated that provide a convenient graphical user interface and softwaredecoding of MP3 files. Some technology allows users to play MP3 files ontheir PC, using an existing sound card with external speakers. However,to listen to MP3s the user must interface with the PC, using a mouse andkeyboard, and must be nearby the PC sound output equipment.

Other content mediums are trending toward digitization. The processingand sharing of digital images is expected to increase geometrically asdigital cameras gradually replace conventional film chemistry.Electronic texts (eBooks) are another example of how digitizationenables more efficient and varied transfer of content. As systembandwidth increases, it is only a matter of time before digital videotransport is as common as audio is now. Additionally, interactivemultimedia (Flash and Shockwave) will increasingly be made available toend users with PCs.

A market for home networking technology has emerged, driven by the needto share an Internet connection between two or more PCs, and to connectall the PCs to productivity peripherals. There has been innovation inlocal area network (LAN) technology based on end-user desire forsimplicity and ease of installation. The Home Phoneline NetworkingAssociation (HPNA) promotes networking products that turn existing phonewiring in the home into an Ethernet physical layer. Existing HPNAproducts provide data-rates equivalent to 10base-T Ethernet,approximately 10 Mbps. Networking technology that uses the AC powerwiring in the home to carry data signals has also appeared. Similar toHPNA devices, adapters are required to convert data signals from devicesinto voltage fluctuations carried on to and off of the AC wires,allowing any AC outlet to become a network interface.

Wireless radio-frequency (RF) LAN technology has also been introducedinto the home networking market. Theoretically, wireless technology isthe most convenient for the end user to install. Two prevalent standardsfor wireless networking are Institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers (IEEE) 802.11b and HomeRF. Both of these systems utilize theunlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM band as the carrier frequency for thetransmission of data. Both of these technologies have effective rangesof approximately 150 feet in a typical household setting. In addition toutilizing Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)protocols, IEEE 802.11b and HomeRF include additional encryption andsecurity protocol layers so that the user's devices have controlledaccess to data being sent through the LAN.

Although there is a significant installed base of PCs with access tolarge volumes of digital content via Internet connectivity, the value ofthat content is limited when it can only be experienced at the PC.

Portable digital audio playback devices have been developed that aresignificantly smaller than portable CD players because they contain nomoving parts, only flash memory, a microprocessor for decoding MP3compressed audio content, and batteries. However, the cost per bit ofaudio content with portable digital audio playback devices is still veryhigh because of the high cost of flash memory. The typical portabledigital audio playback device includes enough flash memory to storeabout one CD's worth of digital music. The result is that the user isburdened with having to continually manually change the music files inthe device by plugging the device into the PC and operating a userinterface, if they want to listen to a wide range of music.

PDAs and other portable handheld computers have achieved widespreadmarket acceptance due to the valuable data manipulation, access, andstorage functionality available in conveniently portable form factors.The innovation of pen-based user interfaces in combination with varioustypes of character recognition technology has also been a factor in thehigh adoption rate of PDAs. The Palm Pilot® in particular has advancedthe state of the art of handheld computing by offering a small, lightform factor with an effective character recognition application calledGraffiti®. The Palm Pilot® uses the PalmOS® operating system. The PalmPilot® is manufactured by Palm Computing, Inc. Other small form factorPDAs are available, such as the iPaq®, manufactured by Compaq Computer,Inc. Casio, Inc. offers the Cassiopeia®.

What is required is a system that allows a user to access all of thedigital content and information services without being forced to sit ata PC.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A webpad and method for using the same are provided. In one embodiment,information is determined about primary content being played on anaudiovisual device using a computer system. Ancillary data is obtainedrelating to the primary content based on the information about theprimary content. The ancillary data is automatically sent to the webpadfor access therefrom as the primary content is being played on theaudiovisual device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be understood more fully from the detaileddescription given below and from the accompanying drawings of variousembodiments of the invention, which, however, should not be taken tolimit the invention to the specific embodiments, but are for explanationand understanding only:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic of one embodiment of the wireless webpadsystem;

FIG. 2 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a webpad that is aPDA attached to a wireless LAN adapter;

FIG. 3 shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a wireless LANadapter;

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of a wireless LANadapter;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the electronic componentsin the wireless LAN adapter;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the software componentsin the wireless webpad;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of one embodiment of an interactive TV systemusing a set-top box;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of one embodiment of an interactive TV systemusing a PC; and

FIG. 9 is a view of one embodiment of a graphical user interface on awebpad.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A webpad and method for using the same are described. In the followingdescription, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details areset forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the presentinvention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art thatthe present invention can be practiced without these specific details.In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in blockdiagram form in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.

A set of definitions is provided below to clarify the present invention.

Definitions

Personal Digital Assistants (hereafter PDAs) are defined as the categoryof computers that are small enough to be comfortably held in one hand,and that contain software applications that are used for personalorganization, productivity, and communication. The PDA category includeshandheld computers, including single-housing devices such as the PalmPilot, which have a two-piece clam-shell plastic housing with anintegral display. PDAs of this variety include an LCD that allows theuser to write on it with a stylus, or otherwise control and manipulatethe software and stored content on the PDA. There are also hingeddesigns for PDAs that are similar in configuration, although muchsmaller than, portable notebook computers. In this configuration, onehousing contains the microprocessor, memory, batteries, and smallkeyboard, and the other housing contains an LCD.

A network is one or more computer devices of any type, such as apersonal computer (PC), network appliance, or PDA, connected together bya data transfer link. A PDA that has a communication link to theInternet is often referred to as a node. A node (point of interactionwith the Internet) on the network can potentially communicate, i.e.,send or receive data to any other node (electronic device) on thenetwork. Networks may be physically wired or they may be wireless.

The Internet is used interchangeably with the term web or worldwide web.Both of these are defined as the worldwide network of PCs, servers, andother devices.

A CCD (charged coupled device) is a semiconductor technology used tobuild light-sensitive electronic devices such as cameras. Each CCD chipconsists of an array of light sensitive photocells that, in conjunctionwith a lens, can be used to capture both still shots and movingpictures. CCD technology is well known in the field of digital imageacquisition and will not be described in detail here for reasons ofbrevity.

Broadband connection is defined as a communications network in which thefrequency bandwidth can be divided and shared by multiple simultaneoussignals. A broadband connection to the Internet typically providesminimum upstream and downstream data-rates of approximately 200K or morebits per second. There are many different types of broadband connectionsincluding DSL, cable modems, and fixed and mobile wireless connections.

A Data Over Cable System Interface Specification (DOCSIS) modem is anindustry standard type of cable modem that is used to provide broadbandaccess to the Internet over a coaxial cable physical layer that is alsoused for the delivery of cable TV signals (CATV). DOCSIS modems are wellknown in the telecommunications industry and will not be described herein detail.

A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) modem is also an industry standard typeof modem that is used to provide broadband access to the Internet, butover conventional copper phone lines (local loops). DSL modems are wellknown in the telecommunications industry and will not be described herein further detail.

The term gateway, used interchangeably with broadband gateway, isdefined as an integral modem and router, and may include hubfunctionality. The modem function is used to change voltage fluctuationson an input carrier line (a DSL line input or a cable TV input) intodigital data.

Routers are devices that connect one distinct network to another bypassing only certain IP addresses that are targeted for specificnetworks. Hubs allow one network signal input to be split and thus sentto many devices.

Gateway storage peripheral is defined as an add-on storage device withprocessing power, an operating system, and a software application thatmanages the downloading and storage of data. An example scenario for theuse of a gateway storage peripheral is a system where a user has aDOCSIS modem and would like to add an always-on storage capability. Thegateway storage peripheral is connected to the DOCSIS modem via a USBport or an Ethernet port in the DOCSIS modem. A gateway storageperipheral in combination with a DOCSIS modem or any type of broadbandmodem is considered a storage gateway system. A PC that is always lefton and connected to an always-on gateway with a DSL or broadband cableconnection is considered a storage gateway system.

The term “message” is defined as information that is sent digitally fromone computing device to another for various purposes. The term “content”is used to mean the information contained in digital files or streams.For example, content may be entertainment or news, or audio files in MP3format. “Data” is used to mean information such as digital schedulecontents, responses from devices sent back through the system, ordigital messages and email. “Content” and “data” are sometimes usedinterchangeably. “Client devices” are those devices that are not fullyfunctional without a host device such as a personal computer.

Local Area Network (LAN) is defined as a network structure that includestwo or more devices that can communicate with other devices utilizing ashared communication infrastructure, including wired networktechnologies, such as Ethernet, or wireless network technologies such asInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b orHomeRF technology. Wireless LAN technology such as IEEE 802.11b andHomeRF are based on the unlicensed 2.4 Ghz ISM (Industrial, Scientific,and Medical) frequency band. These networking technologies utilizeTransmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocols (TCP/IP) protocols.

A LAN typically constitutes a group of interconnected devices that sharea common geographic location and are typically grouped together as asubnet. A local network, for example, would be a home network whereseveral computers and other smart devices would be digitally connectedfor the purpose of transferring content and data, controlling eachother, sharing programming, or presenting data and content to a user.

CODEC (Compression/Decompression algorithm) is a software applicationthat is used to decode (uncompress) encoded (compressed) media files orstreams. Most content is stored and sent in a compressed format so thatthe content files are smaller and thus take up less storage space anduse less bandwidth when being transferred via the Internet. The contentis then decoded at the playback device. For example, MP3 audio files areencoded and must be decoded by a microprocessor running the codec inorder for the audio content to be presented to the user in an analogformat.

HTTP is Hyper-text transfer protocol, the protocol used by Web browsersand Web servers to transfer files, such as text and graphic files.Data-rate is defined as the data throughput of a telecommunicationssystem or technology, and is measured in a quantity of bits per second,such as millions of bits per second (Mbps).

Overview of Operation

Referring now to FIG. 1, the fundamental operation of the wirelesswebpad 32 system involves LAN transmission of digital content andservices from a local server that is a PC in one embodiment. Content andcommunication services are received via PC but can originate on theInternet 8, using the PC as a proxy server. Wireless webpad 32 receivesthe digital content and communications and processes it in various ways.

In one embodiment, webpad 32, shown in FIG. 2, is a PalmV PDA 36manufactured by Palm Computing. The PDA 36 is attached to a wireless LANadapter 40. The PC is also functionally connected via a USB connectionto a wireless radio frequency (RF) LAN access point 28, such thatdigital content from PC is transmitted to nodes on the LAN 48.

The Function of the PC and Broadband Connection in the System

In one embodiment, the function of PC in the wireless webpad 32 systemis to acquire, store, manage, and serve digital content and interactiveservices to wireless webpad 32. Digital content is stored on PC harddisk drive 56. PC gains access to digital audio and video contentseveral ways. In one embodiment PC is also connected to Internet 8 via abroadband cable modem 16. Thus PC has access via content services todownloadable digital audio files such as MP3 formatted audio files,MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 video files, as well as digital audio and videostreams from Internet 8 servers.

In one embodiment, the user can also manually convert CD audio filesinto MP3 files, a process known as “ripping”. PC can also route Internet8 streams of content to webpad 32. In other embodiments, PC is connectedto Internet 8 through a dial-up modem connection to an ISP, or DigitalSubscriber Line (DSL), or a fixed wireless broadband connection.

Discussion of Wireless LAN adapter 40—Mechanical Description

As shown in FIG. 2, PDA 36 docks with wireless LAN adapter 40 with aspring loaded mechanical attachment that includes a latch hook 284. Thelatch hook 284 is shown in FIG. 3. In one example where the PDA 36 is aPalm, and Palm Computing provides a reference design for connecting tothe Palm V with the use of a small slot on the bottom side of the Palm Vhousing. PDA 36 is released from wireless LAN adapter 40 by pressingbutton 176. Electrical contacts on the rear end of PDA 36 make contactwith electrical contacts on wireless LAN adapter 40 in order toestablish a data communication link.

FIG. 3 shows wireless LAN adapter 40 without PDA 36 attached. In oneembodiment, the lower part of wireless LAN adapter 40 has the same shapeas the lower part of PDA 36, and includes the same electrical contactsas PDA 36 electrical contacts in order to fit in to and utilize theexisting PDA 36 docking cradle. By placing PDA 36 attached to wirelessLAN adapter 40 into PDA 36 docking cradle, both the PDA 36 battery andthe battery 104 included in wireless LAN adapter 40 are alternativelycharged.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an exploded view of wireless LAN adapter 40shows a typical two-piece plastic shell construction as well as othercomponents. Internal hardware components include a motherboard 156 thatcontains the electronic components that constitute the functionaldata-manipulating aspect of the device.

Electrical Description

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram of the electrical components in wirelessLAN adapter 40. Motherboard 156 electrically connects componentsincluding a microprocessor 115, dynamic memory (DRAM) 116, programmable(flash) memory 118, a power regulation and battery charging sub-system124, a digital signal processor (DSP), battery 104, a headset jack 184,and a stereo audio out jack 128. A wireless LAN transceiver 44 isfunctionally connected to motherboard 156.

In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 also includes adigital-to-analog converter (DAC) for converting the uncompresseddigital information into analog signals that are presented at the stereoaudio out jack 128. Microprocessor 115 in combination with DRAM memory116 executes instructions from the real time operating system 92 andcontrol firmware 96. In an alternative embodiment, wireless LAN adapter40 includes a charge-coupled device (CCD) chip and a lens, the functionof which will be explained later in this disclosure.

Description of Wireless LAN Transceivers (Card in LAN Adapter)

Wireless LAN transceivers 44 are capable of sending and receiving datausing radio frequencies via a wireless data transfer protocol.Technology for such a LAN is currently available and includes theSymphony wireless networking access point provided by Proxim, Inc. LANsystems such as this are based on RF modulation centered on the 2.4 GHzfrequency band. Such LANs have a practical range of approximately 150feet and are capable of reaching most areas in an average sized housewere webpad 32 might be located.

In another embodiment, the wireless LAN access point 28 is a PCI cardthat is located internal to the PC, with an external antenna 122. Inanother embodiment, the wireless LAN communication link is providedusing IEEE 802.11b protocols. In another embodiment wireless LANcommunication link is provided using Bluetooth protocols.

Wireless Webpad Software and Functionality

Wireless webpad 32 functions are the combined functions of PDA 36 andwireless LAN adapter 40. FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the location ofvarious software functions in wireless webpad 32. PDA 36 is usedprimarily for its user-interface capabilities. Many functions requirethe computer processing power of wireless webpad 32. For example,microprocessor 115 in combination with DAC and CODEC 100 in wireless LANadapter 40 is capable of decoding digital audio files. Microprocessor115 in combination with DSP and a microphone input is capable ofdigitizing sound inputs.

Device Software—CODECs

In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 includes the Fraunhofer CODECin wireless LAN adapter 40, licensed for use by Thomson Electronics fordecoding the digital audio file that is streamed to it from PC. CODEC100 is an executable file stored in memory, launched by control firmware96, executed by real time operating system 92 running on wireless LANadapter 40. Wireless LAN adapter 40 may store a multiple CODECs inmemory 118 in wireless LAN adapter 40 for decoding variously formatteddigital audio files that may be selected by the user. For example, theWindowsMedia CODEC, provided by Microsoft may be stored in memory 118 atwireless webpad 32.

Software Module—System Control Application 64

FIG. 1 lists the software components of wireless webpad 32 system thatare included at PC. FIG. 6 lists the software elements of wireless LANadapter 40 and PDA 36.

The system control application 64 is software executing on PC thatmanages communication and streaming from PC to wireless webpad 32.System control application 64 includes a server module 76 that is a Javaapplication. System control application 64 also includes a databasemodule 68 that is written to or accessed by server module 76, and aseries of graphical user interface (GUI) modules, that provide userinterfaces for setting up content to be accessed by or streamed towireless webpad 32, as well as other devices on the LAN. One instance ofGUI module is a Windows application that runs on PC. Another instance ofGUI module is a native application for PDA 36 operating system.

An example of webpad 32 GUI is the webpad playlist manager GUIapplication 276 that features a three-level nested list structure fororganizing digital audio content. The three levels are labeled aschannels, playlists, and tracks. Channels are lists of playlists, andplaylists are lists of tracks. Track is a GUI representation of alocally cached digital audio file or a digital audio stream fromInternet 8. Audio content services are also available through onlineservices accessed through a browser interface on webpad 32. The onlinedigital audio files associated with online playlist titles in the onlineplaylists are streamed to wireless webpad 32 via PC and wireless LANcommunication link. Server module 76 includes software that interfaceswith the protocols of each online audio service provider to allow onlineplaylists to be downloaded and transferred into database module 68.Thus, playlist structures and playlist titles created online using theweb-based content selection guide are available and can be interactedwith by the user with the webpad playlist manager GUI application 276running on wireless webpad 32.

Software Functions—Communication/Message Processing

The communication and control functions of the wireless webpad 32 systemwill now be described. In one embodiment, a user may use wireless webpad32 GUIs to control the function of wireless webpad 32 and other clientdevices connected to the system.

For example, the user makes selections on webpad playlist manager GUIapplication 276 using the stylus with the touch screen LCD 136. Theseinteractions are processed by the microprocessor 115 and operatingsystem in PDA 36, and messages are sent to control firmware 96 inwireless LAN adapter 40 via the serial port interface. These messagesare then converted into XML-based messages and sent via HTTP requests tosystem control application 64 on PC via wireless LAN. These messages areinterpreted by server module 76 running on PC and specific actions areinitiated. Applications enabled by the wireless webpad 32 system arediscussed below.

System Function—Local Browsing

System control application 64 includes server module 76 that operates asa server for webpad 32. A database of information can be maintained onPC such as yellow pages directories, white pages directories, TV Guide,and the like. Database module 68 stores the locations of the localcontent files. Because of the speed of LAN, access to this informationis very fast. In this embodiment PDA 36 GUI is a browser that accessesthe server with HTTP requests.

System Function—Internet 8 Browsing

Server module 76 also acts as a router and network address translator,allowing the user to use the browser application on the PDA 36 to accessweb pages on Internet 8. The browser application on PDA 36 can receiveworld wide web URLs entered by the user, and server module 76 will routethese requests through to the wide area connection, such as a broadbandInternet 8 connection. The responses back from Internet 8 are routedthrough to webpad 32.

System Function—Streaming Audio

An aspect of control firmware 96 on wireless LAN adapter 40 incombination with webpad playlist manager GUI application 276 on the PDA36 provides the ability to initiate and control a real-time digitalaudio or video stream from server module 76 on PC. Webpad playlistmanager GUI application 276 on PDA 36 also provides the standardcontrols for starting, stopping, pausing, progressing to the next track,and the like. These controls are GUI elements on the touch screen LCD136. The user activates the control GUI elements with the stylus.

The interaction of control firmware 96 with server module 76 provides abuffer management function that controls the flow of portions of thedigital audio file from PC into a local DRAM memory of wireless webpad32. The buffer management function insures that the local DRAM memorybuffer is filled as the contents of DRAM are decoded by microprocessor115 executing CODEC 100. DAC converts the decoded digital audio intoanalog signals that are presented at the head phone jack 128 on wirelessLAN adapter 40. The user listens to the audio stream using a stereoheadset plugged into earphone jack 128.

System Function—Real-Time Interactive TV Synchronization Mode

There are two embodiments for providing interactivity between webpad 32and a TV. In one embodiment, the system control application 64 is run onPC. In another embodiment, the system control application 64 can run ona set-top box that includes a digital cable converter and a DOCSIS cablemodem, as well as a wireless LAN access point.

In the set-top box scenario, as shown in FIG. 7, system controlapplication 64 receives information as to the current cable channel thatthe digital cable converter is tuned to. The set-top box makes thecurrently playing content channel available to system controlapplication 64. System control application 64 sends a message containingthe current channel via Internet 8 connection integral to the set-topbox to an online lookup application.

In one embodiment, the online lookup application in combination with anonline programming guide database, a function for obtaining the currenttime and date, and location information regarding the user, such as zipcode, obtains a text description of the currently playing content. Theonline programming guide database is a searchable database of thebroadcast programming schedule for all broadcast mediums, such asterrestrial, cable, and satellite broadcasts. The user has an onlineaccount with the service/set-top box provider so that zip codeinformation is accessible.

In an alternate embodiment, an Internet 8 search function is used togather ancillary content links, defined as links to webpages that relatein subject matter to the text descriptors of the currently playingcontent. These ancillary content links are automatically sent to webpad32 when TV synchronization mode is activated on webpad 32. The result isthat while watching a TV program such as movie or an advertisement,related links are immediately sent to webpad 32.

Using the above example of ancillary content sent automatically to thewebpad 32, activation by the user of a GUI tag button displayed onwebpad 32 LCD 136 that is associated with the ancillary contentcurrently displayed on LCD 136, results in the transmission of a messageback through LAN informing system control application 64 that tag buttonwas activated. Server module 76 then compiles and transmits tag messageto a tag storage and processing server. The information in tag messageis associated with the currently playing content and may include but isnot limited to: metadata or meta-tags (ID3 data) included in the file orstream (characters or images); the file name if content is a file; theURL or IP address of the stream if content is a stream; time; date; anduser identifier. Other ancillary content is then aggregated a web pagethat is accessible to the user of the system.

In another embodiment, the system control application is operating on aPC. There are two methods for providing the current channel data to thesystem control application for the purpose of sending ancillary contentlinks to webpad 32.

Referring now to FIG. 8, webpad 32 includes an IR transceiver subsystemand is used to control the broadcast media channel on the TV. This isaccomplished by the use of control firmware, a TV control GUI, and theassociated IR pulse codes for the given TV.

FIG. 9 shows a broadcast media system setup webpage that is accessed viawebpad 32, that enables the user to provide information regarding themodel of cable-ready TV that is being used, as well the broadcast systemthat is being used, and the user's zip code. The system controlapplication uses the model number of the cable-ready TV to obtain thepulse code for changing the cable channels on the TV from a pulse codedatabase on the Internet 8. The IR pulse codes for controlling thecable-ready TV are automatically downloaded into webpad 32. Thebroadcast system and zip code are used by the online lookup applicationto derive the programming schedule for the system.

Referring again to FIG. 8, when the user uses webpad 32 to change achannel, control firmware that is controlling the TV control GUI sends amessage to PC with the current channel. In the initial setup of the TVcontrol GUI, the actual channel number must be input by the user. Systemcontrol application on TV in turn sends this information to the onlinelookup application, which operates as described above. The ancillarycontent webpage link is sent back through the system until it is pushedonto webpad 32 and automatically refreshed so that the user hasimmediate access to the ancillary content.

In an alternative embodiment, the other method in which the systemcontrol application can access the current channel data to be sent tothe online lookup application is for the user to input the cable channelor actual name of the TV program into a webpage GUI on webpad 32.

There are many applications that can operate using the elements andsequence of events described above. For example, users can engage inreal-time interactive games, such as playing along with game showprograms. In the case of interactive games, rather than ancillarycontent being sent back to webpad, pages are sent to webpad that aresynchronized with a game that is being played. The pages containquestions that are the same questions as those being presented on thegame show program. Webpad 32 users can answer the questions using thewebpad 32 user interface and send the answers back to the game showprogram synchronizing server.

Another embodiment of the real-time interactive TV mode is the abilityto bid on TV auctions. In this embodiment, an auction can be broadcastvia terrestrial cable or TV and users can respond using webpad 32. Theitems to be bid upon are sent formatted as webpages to webpad 32. Usinga GUI, users input amounts to be paid into the GUI and trigger theresponse to be sent back to the auction server on Internet 8.

In another embodiment, the interaction involves placing bets on variousgambling activities including card games, horse races, and sportingevents. Users use a GUI in a browser on webpad 32 to input amounts ofbets. These bets are processed by a bet-processing server and theoutcome of the game is sent back to webpad 32.

In another embodiment, the interaction involves purchasing products orservices by the use of a GUI on a webpage on webpad 32. Webpages thatare synchronized to the broadcast content are presented that includelinks or buttons for purchasing the product. If the user activates the“purchase” button, a message is sent back through the system to ane-commerce server and the user is notified that the purchase has beenmade.

System Function—Voice-Over-IP Mode

In one embodiment, wireless LAN adapter 40 includes DSP for digitizingaudio inputs. A headset, which is a combination earphone and microphone,is plugged into headset jack 184 on wireless LAN adapter 40. When avoice-over-IP call is initiated using a GUI on PDA 36, DSP in concertwith microprocessor 115 and control firmware 96 converts the analogvoice signal into digital packets in real time and sends thisinformation via LAN communication link to server module 76 on PC. Servermodule 76 on PC routes these packets to the appropriate voice-over-IPserver on Internet 8. It is assumed that Internet 8 voice-over-IPservice is used. FIG. 3 shows that wireless LAN adapter 40 includes ananswer button 288 that is connected electrically to microprocessor 115and allows convenient one-button activation when answering voice-over-IPcalls. Volume up and volume down buttons are also included in wirelessLAN adapter 40.

System Function—Voice-Recording Mode

In one embodiment, DSP and microprocessor 115 constitutes a audiodigitizing subsystem that can be used to digitize voice messages. A GUIon PDA 36 allows the user to initiate and stop a recording interval,similar to controls on many audio recording devices. As the recording istaking place, the audio signal is digitized and sent in large blocksthat are re-constructed by system control application 64. The resultingaudio files are stored on PC, or can be sent other users as emailattachments. The GUI on PDA 36 also includes an address book forselection the recipient of the audio message.

System Function—Image Data Transfer

Image data transfer occurs in two modes: still camera function and videocamera function. In one embodiment, the wireless LAN adapter 40 includesa CCD chip and lens subsystem. The output of a CCD ship is a singleframe or a sequence of frames that are an array of pixels. In stillimage transfer mode, one digital frame is sent to PC via wireless LANcommunication link 48 and stored in database 68. This digital image canbe saved in a variety of standard image formats such as JPEG or TIFFformats. A GUI on PDA 36 provides for activation of the still imagecamera function.

In video camera mode, digital video frames are captured by the CCDsubsystem and encoded in MPEG-4 format, and sent in real time via thewireless LAN communication link, to system control application 64. Avideo compilation software application that is an element of systemcontrol application 64 appends these frames into an MPEG-4 video file.In an alternative embodiment, the MPEG-4 stream can be routed by theserver module 76 to a server on the Internet 8 where the stream can beaccessed by a third party. A GUI on PDA 36 allows for the starting andstopping of streaming video from wireless webpad 32.

Network Device Control

In one embodiment, by connecting a network module to various otherelectronic devices, these devices become nodes in the LAN and can bemanipulated by software on PC as well as with GUI control applicationsrunning on webpad 32. Examples of other networked devices could include,but are not limited to, a television, stereo, oven, HVAC system, lights,video camera security systems, video baby monitors, and door locks,among others. LAN adapters connected to electronic devices differaccording to the functions of each device but include a wired orwireless transceiver and other necessary control circuitry.

PC with wireless LAN access point 28 and system control application 64is the fixed central controller for all these devices and can be used toperform various control functions such as on/off control. Webpad 32 isused as the portable central controller for these networked devices. Inan example scenario, a user can use webpad 32 in concert with a wirelessLAN video module that is pointed to an infant located in a house.

As another example, webpad 32 can be used to control a digital audioconverter, a device that is a node on the LAN and is able to receivedigital audio streams from PC, decode and convert the stream into analogsignals that are plugged into any existing stereo system. Webpadplaylist manager GUI application 276 that is used to manage playlistsand control streams into webpad 32 can be used to control audio contentdelivered to the digital audio converter. A GUI element in webpadplaylist manager GUI application 276 allows the user to select eitherdigital audio converter or webpad 32 as the target device for the audiostream.

In one embodiment, a further use of webpad 32 as a device controllerentails using the built in infrared (IR) capabilities on PDA 36s. Webpad32 can use its IR transmitter to communicate directly with electronicdevices with IR receivers such as televisions and stereos, or with an IRenabled amplifier module attached. The specific IR configurations forindividual electronic devices can be downloaded from Internet 8 by PC,stored on PC and then sent to webpad 32.

In an example scenario, webpad 32 is used to control the television. Theuser requests to use PDA 36 as a TV remote controller by making aselection to his effect on a GUI on webpad 32. The makes selections onthe AV control GUI on webpad 32 both to lower the volume of the TV andto watch a specific program being broadcast. Previously, webpad 32downloaded the relevant IR configurations for the TV from Internet 8through PC. Webpad 32 then transmits the IR data to the TV.

Alternative Embodiments

The wireless LAN adapter has several permutations that have not yet beenexplicitly mentioned but are implied: the module can include an externalantenna 122; the audio in/out jack and/or the stereo out jack and itsassociated function can be regarded as optional on the device; the CCDand its associated functions can be viewed as optional on the device;the IR capabilities and its associated functions on the PDA can beviewed as optional on the PDA; the IR capabilities and its associatedfunctions can be incorporated directly into the wireless LAN adapter;the CCD and its related functions can be added to the system byattaching a CCD camera plug-on adapter module directly to the PDA (PDAssuch as the Palm Pilot, manufactured by Palm Computing, and the Visor,manufactured by Handspring, offer optional CCD camera plug-on adapters);the wireless LAN adapter may include a conventional power jack and berecharged through a charging module unassociated with the PDA. Otherpermutations and embodiments exist that are not explicitly listed above.

Embodiment with PDA with Decoding Capability

PDAs such as the iPaq include microprocessors that are capable ofdecoding digital audio and video streams, as well the capability tostore a quantity of digital content files in internal memory. In anotherembodiment, an iPaq includes a CompactFlash wireless LAN card and anintegrated control and GUI software application that provides thecapability of communicating with the system control application as wellas all of the functions of the webpad described above.

Embodiment with Gateway Node

For example, another method for providing an Internet connection to thewebpad is to include a gateway node, a device that is a wireless LAN toethernet converter. The gateway node system is used when there is anexisting Internet connection such as a DSL connection or a cable modemconnection. An example system would include a broadband gateway that isalso a hub, such as the Netopia 3100 router, made by Netopia. TheNetopia router performs routing and hub functions in addition to otherfunctions such as being a DHCP server (it dynamically serves up internetprotocol addresses). The Netopia router has several physical connectionports. In one port it receives a connection to the Internet, such as aDSL connection. There are several other physical ports that are Ethernetports. The gateway node in this case would convert Ethernet protocol tothe wireless LAN protocol, and broadcast them. The gateway node wouldalternatively receive RF signals from the webpad module and convert themto Ethernet protocol messages. By using a gateway node, the webpadassembly is capable of communicating with the Internet without the useof a home PC.

Depending on which PDA is used and how much computing power isavailable, various functions described above may be executed by theprocessor located in the wireless LAN adapter, or they may be executedby the processor in the PDA. Or both processors may share the computingload.

Alternative Embodiment—Wireless Connection to Streaming Player withStorage

In another embodiment, wireless LAN adapter includes a large quantity ofbattery-backed up static RAM, or SRAM that allows the webpad to store aquantity of data. For example, the user selects a number of digitalaudio tracks on the PC using the GUI on the wireless webpad that are tobe downloaded and stored on the webpad. The battery backed-up SRAMstores the files so the user can access and listen to the digital audiofiles away from the wireless LAN communication link.

In another embodiment, the wireless LAN adapter may include a card slotfor accepting CompactFlash memory cards. In this case, the digital audiofiles transferred from the PC to the wireless webpad are stored inCompactFlash memory, and the user may listen to the audio files beyondthe vicinity of the LAN communication link.

A webpad and method for using the same have been described. Although thepresent invention is described herein with reference to specificembodiments, many modifications and variations therein will readilyoccur to those with ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, all suchvariations and modifications are included within the intended scope ofthe present invention as defined by the following claims.

1. A system, comprising: a local area network (LAN); a device coupled tothe LAN adapted to stream a digital representation of a media; a webpadcoupled to the LAN having an application adapted to decode and convertthe digital representation of the media into analog signals; and adigital converter coupled to the LAN having an application adapted todecode and convert the digital representation of the media into analogsignals; wherein the webpad further comprises a control application foruse in sending commands to the device to cause the device to stream thedigital representation of the media to at least one of the webpad or thedigital converter.
 2. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein thecontrol application causes a GUI application to be displayed to a userwhereby a user may interact with the GUI application to cause the deviceto stream the digital representation of the media to at least one of thewebpad or the digital converter.
 3. The system as recited in claim 2,wherein the GUI application displays a playlist to the user.
 4. Thesystem as recited in claim 1, wherein the digital audio converter isadapted to communicate the audio signals to a stereo system.
 5. Thesystem as recited in claim 2, wherein the webpad comprises an adaptermodule attached to a personal digital assistant, the adapter modulebeing used to exchange communications with the device and the personaldigital assistant being used as an interface to command the adaptermodule.
 6. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein the devicecomprises a computer.
 7. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein thedevice sends ancillary data related to the digital representation of themedia to the webpad.
 8. The system as recited in claim 1, wherein theWebpad comprises a remote control application for issuing wirelesscommands to one or more appliances to thereby command operationalfunctions of the one or more appliances.
 9. The system as recited inclaim 8, wherein the Webpad comprises an infrared transmitter forissuing wireless commands.
 10. A method comprising: receiving into awebpad a command which functions to select a target device which is toreceive from a source device, via a local area network (LAN), a streamof a digital representation of a media; sending a transmission from thewebpad to the source device to cause the source device to route thestream of the digital representation of the media to the target device;and decoding and converting the digital representation of the media atthe target device into analog signals to thereby allow for areproduction of the media.
 11. The method as recited in claim 10,comprising displaying to a user a GUI application on the webpad wherebya user may interact with the GUI application to cause the webpad toissue a transmission to direct the source device to stream the digitalrepresentation of the media to the target device.
 12. The method asrecited in claim 11, wherein the GUI application displays a playlist tothe user.
 13. The method as recited in claim 10, wherein the webpadcomprises an adapter module attached to a personal digital assistant,the adapter module being used to exchange communications with the sourcedevice and the personal digital assistant being used as an interface tocommand the adapter module.
 14. The method as recited in claim 10,wherein the source device comprises a computer.
 15. The method asrecited in claim 10, wherein the source device sends ancillary datarelated to the digital representation of the media to the webpad.